Small Dog Breeds

So You Want The Perfect Dog

Small Dog Breeds

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Small dogs should be under 15 inches tall at the shoulders. They weigh between 4 and 30 pounds.

The book cover 65 small dog breeds.

Affenpinscher

Affenpinscher originated in Central Europe (Munich, Germany and France) where they were used as watchdogs. They are usually black, but they also come in gray, silver, red, belge or black and tan. They are members of the toy group and were AKC recognized in 1936.They range in size from 9 to 11½ inches tall at the shoulder and have an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years. Patellar luxation, corneal ulcers, respiratory difficulties, patent ductus arteriosus and open fontanel are sometimes seen in this breed.

Australian Terrier

Australian Terrier was developed as a rodent & snake hunter in the rugged Australian Outback. They have a blue and tan, sandy or red coat that is harsh in texture and are members of the terrier group and were AKC recognized in 1960.They are 10-11 inches tall at the shoulder and have an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years. Legg-Perthes disease, cruciate ligament rupture, seizures, patellar luxation and diabetes are some of the health issues that are foundinthis breed.

Basenji

Basenji is from Africa and is called the barkless dog. They were bred as hunters. Coat colors include chestnut red, pure black or brindle -- all with white feet, chest and tail tip. They are member of the hound group and were AKC recognized in 1944. Their ideal size ranges from 16 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder and 22 to 24 pounds. They have an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years and may suffer from canine hip dysplasia, corneal dystrophy,patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, Fanconi syndrome, Basenji enteropathy, umbilical hernia, persistent pupillary membranes, Pyruvate kinase deficiency, and hypothyroidism.

Beagle

Beagle from Englalnd and used to hunt rabbits. They comes in two height varieties (13 in. and 15 in.) and any true hound color, including tri-color, red and white and lemon. They are members of the hound group and were AKC recognized in 1885. The Beagle must be 15 inches tall or under and have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Bealtes have been know to be affected by patellar luxation, glaucoma, epilepsy, central progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism, distichiasis, chondrodysplasia, cherry eye, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, deafness, cataract, hemophilia A, demodicosis, umbilical hernia , primary carnitine deficiency, and intervertebral disk disease.

Bedlington Terrier

Bedlington Terrier is named for the Bedlington Mining Shire in the county of Northumberland, England, where it was developed were they were used as rat hunters. Their coat starts out dark in puppyhood and fades to a pale bluish gray, sandy or liver, giving him the appearance of a lamb. They are members of the terrier group and were AKC recognized in 1886. They range in from 17 to 23 pounds in size. With an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years they are prone to copper toxicosis,

renal cortical hypoplasia, retinal dysplasia, distichiasis. and the may suffer frompatellar luxation.

Bichon Frise

Bichon Frise appeared as a descendent from the Water Spaniel and used as a companion dog. The coat must be white, but may have shadings of buff, cream or apricot around the ears or on the body. They are members of the non sporting group and were AKC recognized in 1972. Their ideal size between 9½ and 11½ inches tall at the shoulder. They have lifespan of about 12 to 15 years and are prone to hyperadrenocorticism, allergies, patellar luation, cataract and canine hip dysplasia, Legg-Perthes and liver disease.

Border Terrier

Border Terrier originated in the border country between England and Scotland as fox hunters. They may be red, grizzle and tan, blue and tan, or wheaten with a dark muzzle. They are members of the terrier group and were AKC recognized in 1930. They range in size from 11½ to 15½ pounds. The Border Terrier has an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years and are prone to canine hip dysplasia, heart defects, and patellar luxation.

Boston Terrier

Boston Terrier was developed in the stables of Boston, Massachusetts, as a fighting dog. Their coat must be black, brindle or seal with white markings. They are members of the non-sporting group and were AKC recognized in 1893. They are divided into classes by weight: Under 15 pounds; 15 pounds and under 20 pounds; 20 pounds and not to exceed 25 pounds. Boston Terrier have an averafe lifespan of 10 to 14 years and may suffer from he following health issues:stenotic nares, allergies, elongated soft palate,patellar luxation, deafness, demodicosis, seizures, corneal abrasions, and cataract.

Brussels Griffon

Brussels Griffon, a watchdog, was developed in Belgium. They come in a variety of colors, including red, belge (black and reddish brown), black and tan, or black. They are members of the toy group and were AKC recognized in 1910. They range in size from 8 to 10 pounds and should not to exceed 12 pounds. A Brussels Griffon has a very human expression and one was featured in 1997's hit, "As Good As It Gets", starring Jack Nicholson and Helen Hunt. They have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. They may have some health issues like weak bladder, distichiasis, patellar luxation, canine hip dysplasia, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy.

Cairn Terrier

Cairn Terrier originally bred to aid Scottish farmers in ridding their properties of pests. They come in be any color except white. They are members of the terrier group and were AKC recognized in 1913. Their ideal size is about 10 inches tall at the shoulder and 14 pounds. "Toto" from the Wizard of Oz was a Cairn Terrier. They have an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years and are prone to Globoid cell leukodystrophy, glaucoma, portacaval shunt, and Craniomandibular osteopathy.

Cardigan Welsh Corgi

Cardigan Welsh Corgi first arrived in Cardiganshire (its place of origin) with the Celts in 1200 BC and used as a drover and farm dog. Their coats colors include red, sable, brindle, black and blue merle. White markings are common. They are members of the herding group and were AKC recognized in 1935.They range in size from 10.5 to 12.5 inches tall at the shoulder and 25 to 38 pounds.

They have an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years and may suffer from degenerative myelopathy, canine hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy and urinary stones.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel were bred as a companion dog and descended from spaniel roots. They come in four colors - Blenheim (chestnut and white), Tricolor (black, white, and tan), Ruby (solid red) and Black and Tan. Thy are members of the toy group and were AKC recognized in 1995. There average size is 12 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder and between 13 and 18 pounds. They have an average lifespan of 9 to 14 years and may be prone to patellar luxation, entropion, syringomelia, mitral valve insufficiency,canine hip dysplasia, retinal dysplasia and reduced platelet numbers.

Chihuahua

Chihuahua has a mysterious history, earliest specimens of the breed were found in the Mexican State of Chihuahua. They can be any color - solid, marked or splashed and the coat may be long or short. They are members of the toy group and weigh under 6 pounds. They were AKC recognized in 1904. They have a life expectancy of about 15 or more years.They are prone to rheumatism, slipped stifle, colds and gum problems, corneal dryness and secondary glaucoma, susceptible to fractures, they have a tendency to wheeze and snore.

Chinese Crested

Chinese Crested are believed to have evolved from African hairless dogs and were used to hunt vermin on Chinese ships. They come in two varieties: The Hairless and The Powderpuff and any color or combination of colors is allowed. They are members of the toy group and were AKC recognized in 1991. Their ideal size is 11 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder. They have an average lifespan of 13 to 15 years. They are prone to deafness, patellar luxation, seizures, progressive retinal atrophy, lens luxation, glaucoma and occasionally Legg-Perthes.

Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels comes in two varieties: the English Cocker Spaniel and the American Cocker Spaniel, both can be traced back to England were they were used to hunt small game. Cocker Spaniels can be black, black with tan points, parti-colored or any solid color.They are the smallest of the spaniels and the sporting group and were AKC recognized in 1878 with an average size of 13 ½ inches to 15 ½ inches at the shoulder. They generally lives between 12 to 15 years. Some health problems include progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, patellar luxation, glaucoma, elbow dysplasia, gastric torsion, epilepsy,cardiomyopathy, ectropion, urinary stones,otitis externa, canine hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, seborrhea, phosphofructokinase deficiency, entropion, "cherry eye," liver disease, allergies, and congestive heart failure occiasionally affect this breed.

Dachshund

Dachshund the "badger dog" are from Germany. They come in three different coat varieties (Smooth, Wirehaired or Longhaired) and can be miniature or standard size. Dachshund are members of the hound group and were AKC recognized in 1885. Dachshunds can be standard or miniature size. The standards range from 16-32 pounds, while the miniatures weigh 11 pounds and under. They have an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years. They occasionally suffer from diabetes, gastric torsion, deafness, seizures, patellar luxation, keratoconjunctivitis sicca and Cushing's diease. Intervertebral disk disease is a major health concern. One-colored Dachshunds include red and cream; two-colored Dachshunds include black, chocolate, wild boar, gray (blue) and fawn (Isabella); dapple (merle) pattern; brindle; and sable-the sable pattern.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Dandie Dinmont Terrier were bred as vermin hunters and first appeared near the border of England and Scotland. They are members of the terrier group and were AKC recognized in 1886. They range in size from 8 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder and 18 to 24 pounds. Allowable coat colors are described as "pepper" and "mustard." They have an average lifespan of 11 to 13 years and may suffer from cheyletiella mites infections, intervertebral disk disease and glaucoma.

English Cocker Spaniel

English Cocker Spaniel descended from the original spaniels of Spain and used as hunting dogs. They are members of the sporting group and were AKC recognized in 1946.They range in size from 15 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder and 26 to 34 pounds and can be solid-colored (black, liver or shades of red) or parti-colored, including ticking or roaning and generally has a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. Health-related problems may include patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy,hypothyroidism, canine hip dysplasia, cataract, and kidney disease. The parti-colors are prone to deafness.

English Toy Spaniel

English Toy Spaniel originated in the Far East as a companion dog. This breed is divided into four varieties based on color: Blenheim (rich mahogany red and white); ruby (rich mahogany red); Prince Charles (white with black and tan markings); and King Charles (black and tan). They are members of the toy group and were AKC recognized in 1886.They range in size from 8 to 14 pounds with an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years. They are susceptible to patellar luxation, early tooth loss, and "lazy tongue."

French Bulldog

French Bulldog originated in Nottingham, England as lapdogs for lacemakers. They are indoor dogs that are members of the non-sporting group and were AKC recognized in 1898. They must weigh 28 pounds or less and can be brindle, fawn, white, and brindle and white. The French Bulldog ( Frenchies) have an average lifespan of 9 to 11 years. Some health problems lnclude brachycephallic syndrome, intervertebral disk disease, allergies, and canine hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and hemivertebra. The French Bulldog is sensitive to heat and anesthesia, and dogs of this breed must be delivered by Caesarean section.

Glen of Imaal Terrier

Glen of Imaal Terrier is native to Ireland and bred to rid the home and farm of vermin,to hunt badger and fox. They come in various shades of wheaten, blue and brindle. They are members of the terrier group and were AKC recognized in 2004.They range from 12½ to 14 inches tall at the shoulder and have an average lifespan of 10 to 14 years. Health problems may include canine hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy.

Havanese

Havanese is a native of Cuba as a companion dog. They re members of the toy group and were AKC recognized in 1996.They range in size from 8½ to 11½ inches tall at the shoulder and come in all colors. They should remain untrimmed. The Havanese has an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years. Occasionally they may suffer from patellar luxation, chondrodysplasia, elbow dysplasia, Legg-Perthes, portacaval shunt, deafness, and mitral valve insufficiency.

Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhound pictures can be found in ancient decorative arts of the Mediterranean countries where they were used a game hunters.. They are members of the toy group and were AKC recognized in 1886. They range from 13 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder and come in all colors,except brindle and classic black and tan. Italian Greyhound has an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years.They are prone to patellar luxation, leg and tail fractures, epileps, progressive retinal atrophy , and periodontial disese. They are sensitive to barbiturate anesthesia and susceptible to portacaval shunt, Legg-Perthes, color dilution alopecia, cataract, andhypothyroidism on occasion.

Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terrier are not recognized by the AKC. In the 1800's, the Reverend John "Jack" Russell created a fox hound that would go into the dens and flush out the fox. There are three different Jack Russell Terrier breeds, the Parson, the Russel ( which are both officially recognized by the AKC), and the Jack Russell, which) isn't recognized. They range from 10 to 15 inches in height and 14 to 18 pounds. They may be prone to dislocation of the kneecaps, inherited eye diseases, deafness and Legg Perthes—a disease of the hip joints of small dog breeds. Prone to mast cell tumors. They have a life expectancy of about 15 or more years.

Japanese Chin

Japanese Chin were bred as a companion dog in China. They are members of the toy group and were AKC recognized in 1888. they range from 8 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder. Their coat can be either black and white, red and white, or black and white with tan points. The Japanese Chin has an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years. They are prone to ailments like patellar luxation, cataract, heart murmur, Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca, entropion, achondroplasia, portacaval shunt, and epilepsy. They are also susceptible to corneal abrasions and cannot tolerate anesthesia or heat.

Lakeland Terrier

The Lakeland is an English breed originally developed by farmers to accompany them on hunts. They come in a variety of colors including blue, black, liver, red and wheaten with or without a patch of color over the back and shoulders called a "saddle" and are members of the terrier group. The were AKC recognized in 1934 and are approximately 14½ inches tall at the shoulder and 17 pounds. The Lakeland Terrier has an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years. They are prone to lens luxation and distichiasis, Legg-Perthes disease and von Willebrand's Disease.

Lhasa Apso

Lhasa Apso - clipped

Lhasa Apso originating in Tibet and used an interior sentinel in the Buddhist monasteries. Lhasas come in many colors from light blonde to black. The are member of the non sporrting group and were AKC recognized in 1935. They range in size from 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder and 12 to 18 pounds.

The Lhasa Apso has an average lifespan of approximately 12 to 14 years. They are susceptible to patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, districhiasis, renal cortical hypoplasia, and entropion.

Lowchen

Lowchen originating in Pre-Renaissance Europe and used as an companion dog. All colors and color combinations are acceptable and the range from 12 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder. The aer members of the non-sporting group and were AKC recognized in 1996. The Löwchen has an average lifespan of 13 to 15 years.They may suffer from minor health problems like patellar luxatin and they may be prone to serious heart conditions.

Maltese

Maltese - clipped

Maltese are from the island of Malta and used as a companion dog. They are members of the toy group and were AKC recognized in 1888. They weigh under 7 pounds with 4 to 6 pounds being preferred and they have a white coat. The Maltese has a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. They may suffer from deafness, shaker syndrome, dental problems, patellar luxation, hydrocephalus, open fontanel, hypoglycemia, distichiasis, entropion, hypothyroidism, and portacaval shunt.

Miniature American Eskimo Dog

Miniature American Eskimo Dog descended from the European Spitzes and once used as a circus dog. They hae nothing to do with the Eskimo culture. They are members of the non-sporting Group and were AKC recognized in 1994. They are around 9 inches tall at the shoulder and are white and were originally referred to as the American Spitz. The American Eskimo Dog has an average lifespan of about 12 to 14 years. They are susceptible to patellar luxation, canine hip dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy, and occasionally diabetes.

Miniature Bull Terrier

Miniature Bull Terrier descends directly from the Bull terrier. They are members of the terrier group and were AKC recognized in 1991.They range in size from 10 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder and the coats can be solid white or colored. The Miniature Bull Terrier has an average lifespan of 11 to 14 years. They may suffer from glaucoma, lens luxation, deafness, and kidney disease.

Miniature Pinscher

Miniature Pischer orginated in germany as a barnyard ratter. They are not miniature Dobermans. Their coat colors include red, stag red (red with black hairs), black with rust markings, or chocolate with tan. They are members of the toy group and were AKC recognized in 1925. They range from 10 to 12½ inches tall at the shoulder and have an average lifespan of 12 to 14 yearsand is not meant for outdoor living. They may be prone to some health problems like Legg-Perthes Disease, patellarluxatioon, hypothyroidism, Mucopolysaccharidoses VI, and heart defects and Progressive Retinal Atrophy.

Miniature Poodle

Miniature Poodle originated in Germany as a water retriever. They can be a variety of solid colors, including white, black, apricot and gray, but never parti-colored. They are members of th enon-sporting grop and were AKC recognized in 1887. They must be over 10 but under 15 inches at the shoulders. The Miniature Poodle has a lifespan of 13 to 15 years. They may be prone to minor problems like trichiasis, distichiasis, entropion, cataract, glaucoma, lacrimal duct atresia, progressive retinal atrophy,epilepsy, Legg Perthes disease, and patellar luxation. Urinary stones have also been connected to this breed.

Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzer was originally bred to be a small farm dog in Germany. Coat colors can be salt and pepper, black and silver and solid black. They are members of the terrier group and were AKC recognized in 1926 They range in size from 12 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder. The Miniature Schnauzer has a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. Some health problems include mycobacterium avium infection, cataract and retinal dysplasia. Major health issues that may affect it are urolithiasis,and progressive retinal atrophy, while some minor health problems include von Willebrand's disease, myotonia congenita, Schnauzer comedo syndrome, and allergies.

Norfolk Terrier

Norfolk Terrier is a native ratter of England. The Norfolk used to be considered the same breed as the Norwich Terrier until 1979 when the drop eared variety became known as the Norfolk Terrier and the prick eared version the Norwich Terrier. They can be red, wheaten, black and tan or grizzle. They are members of the terrier groupand were AKC recognized in 1979. They are approximately 9-10 inches tall at the shoulder and 11-12 pounds and the females may be smaller. The Norfolk Terrier has an average lifespan of 13 to 15 years. Health issues may include allergies, canine hip dysplasia and patellar luxation.

Norwich Terrier

Norwich Terrier are from England’s East Angliabred to hunt vermin. They are members of the terrier group and have an average life span of 12 to 15 years. The average height is 10 inches at the shoulder and they weight around 11 to 12 pounds. They are red, wheaten, black, or tan in color and were AKC recognized in 1936. They may suffer from patellar luxation, cataract, cheyletiella mites, deafness, allergies, seizures,and canine hip dysplasia.

Papillon

Papillon descended from one of the original toy breeds in Europe .They aare member of the toy group and were AKC recognized in 1915. They range in size from 8 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder and must be either parti-color or white with patches of any color. The Papillon has an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Some health problems include dental problems, patellar luxation, and seizures. Open fontanel (a condition affecting skull formation), progressive retinal atrophy, allergies, and intervertebral disk disease can also be seen in some papillons. Knee tests and testing for the hemophilic disorder and von Willebrand's Disease are standard for the breed and they may also be sensitive to anesthesia.

Parson Russell Terrier

Parson Russell Terrier originated in the south of England as a foxhunter. They are white, white with black or tan markings or tri-color in color and are members of the terrier group. They were AKC recognized in 1997 and have an ideal size 13 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder and 13-17 pounds. The Parson Russell Terrier has an average lifespan of 13 to 15 years. They may occasionally suffer from Legg-Perthes disease, glaucoma, ataxia, deafness, compulsive behavior, lens luxation and patellar luxation.

Pekingese

Pekingese originated in China as a canine companion for royalty. They coome in any color and are members of the tooy group. they were AKC recognized in 1906 and they weigh less than 14 pounds. They live on the average from 13 to 15 years. Health concerns include elongated soft palate, patellar luxation, stenotic nares, Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca, trichiasis, corneal abrasions,disticiass, skin fold dermatitis, and urolithiasis . They do not tolerate heat or anesthesia well and most are born by cesarean section.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Pembroke Welsh Corgi is from Pembrokeshire they were brought across the Channel in 1107 by Flemish weavers and used as cattle dogs.

They are members of the herding group and were AKC recognized in 1934. They range in size from 10 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder and their coat can be red, sable, fawn, black and tan with or without white markings. They have an average lifespan of about 11 to 13 years. Serious health concerns such as intervertebral disc disease, canine hip dysplasia, , epilepsy degenerative myelopathy, lens luxation, von Willebrand's Disease, progressive retinal atrophy, and urinary stones for been seen in this breed.

Petit Basset Griffon

Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen originated from France as a scent hound. Coat colors include white with any combination of lemon, orange, black, sable, tricolor or grizzle marking. They are members of the hound group and were AKC recognized in 1990. They rang in size from 13 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder. The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen has an average lifespan of 11 to 14 years. They can be prone to Persistent Pupillary Membrane, ototitis externa, canine hip dysplasia, and corneal and retinal conditions, also intervertebral disk diseasse, meningitis, patellar luxation, hypothryoidism, and epilepsy.

Pomeranian

Pomeranian originally came from the historical region of Pomerania (now present day Germany and Poland) and weighed nearly 30 pounds and used to herd sheep. They have been downsized to a range of 3 to 7 pounds with the idea dog weighting in between 4 and 6 pounds. they come in all coat color's with orange and red being the most popular and are members of the toy group. They were AKC recognized in 1888. The Pomeranian has a lifespan of about 12 to 16 years. Health conditions can include open fontanel, shoulder luxation, hypoglycemia, progressive retinal atrophy, entropion, patellar luxation, Tracheal collapse and patent ductus arteriosis.

Pug

China is the earliest known source for Pugs. They were kept as pets by the Buddhist monasteries in Tibet. They have a square and cobby body and comes in fawn, silver fawn, apricot fawn or black color , with a well-defined "mask" on his muzzle. They were AKC recognized in 1885 and are part of the toy group. They weigh between 14 to 18 pounds.

The Pug has a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. They are prone to major health problems like Pug Dog Encephalitis and canine hip dysplasia. Minor concerns include elongated palate,patellar luxation, stenotic nares, Legg-Perthes disease, entropion, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, hemivertebra, obesity, and skin infections. Nerve degeneration,demodicosis, seizures, distichiasis, and allergies are also seen in this breed. The face wrinkles must be kept clean to prevent skin fold dermatitis. Pugs are sensitive to heat and anesthesia.

Puli

Puli is a sheepdog from Hungary. Coat colors include black, gray and white which naturally clumps together into wooly "cords." They are members of the herding group and were AKC recognized in 1936. Their ideal size is 16 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder. The Puli has an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years. They are susceptible to some health issues such as canine hip dysplasia, Progressive retinal atrophy and deafness.

Schipperke

Schipperke originated in the Flemish regions of Belgium as a watchdog and ship ratter. They have a rough blck coat with no tal. They are members of the non-sporting Group and were AKC recognized in 1904.Their ideal size is 10 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder. The Schipperke has an average lifespan of 13 to 15 years. They may suffer from minor problems like Legg-Perthes disease, epilepsy, and hypothyroidism, or major health issues like mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIB. They may be prone to canine hip dysplasia, entropion, distichiasis, and progressive retinal atrophy .

Scottish Terrier

Scottish Terrier was originally bred to hunt and kill vermin on farms in Scotland. They are black, brindle or wheaten colored and are members of the terrier group. They were AKC recognized in 1885 and their ideal height is 10 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing from 18 to 22 pounds. The Scottish Terrier has a lifespan of 11 to 13 years. Minor problems may include Scotty Cramp, patellar luxation, and cerebellar abiotrophy. Major health issues may include von Willebrand's Disease and craniomandibular osteopathy .

Sealyham Terrier

Sealyham Terrier was originally bred in Wales to quarry badger, fox and otter. Their coat should be all white. Lemon, tan or badger-colored markings are allowed on the head and ears. They are members of the terrier group and were AKC recognized in 1911. Their ideal size is about 10½ inches tall at the shoulder and approximately 24 pounds. The Sealyham Terrier has an average lifespan of 11 to 13 years. Minor health problems may include retinal dysplasia, lens luxation and deafness.

Shetland Sheepdog

Shetland Sheepdog can be traced back to Scotland,where they were used for sheep herding. Their coats can be black, blue merle or sable, marked with varying amounts of white and/or tan.They are members of the herding group and were AKC recognized in 1911. They range in size from 13 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder. The Sheltie has a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. Minor concerns includes patellar luxation, allergies, hypothyroidism, Legg-Perthes, canine hip dysplasia, hemophilia, trichiasis, cataract, Collie eye anomaly, and progressive retinal atrophy. Major health cocerns include dermatomyostis. Occasionally they may suffer from epilepsy, von Willebrand Disease, patent ductus arteriosus, and deafness.

Shiba Inu

Shiba Inu was originally developed for hunting in the dense undergrowth of Japan's mountains. Their coat that can be black and tan, red or red sesame in color. They are members of the non--sport group and were AKC recognized in 1992.They range in size from 13 ½ to 16 ½ inches tall at the shoulder and 17 to 23 pounds. The Shiba Inu has an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. They may be susceptible to minor problems like allergies and cataract and major health issues such aspatellar luxation. Canine hip dysplasia, persistent pupillary membranes, distichiasis, and progressive retinal atrophy are also occasionally seen.

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu - clipped

Shih Tzu in full show coat. Shih Tzu means "lion" and they come in all colors. They are from China and were used as household pets. They were AKC recognized in 1969. They range in size from 8 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder and 9 to 16 pounds.

Silky Terrier

The Silky Terrier was developed at the end of the 1800's in Australia for hunting vermin. The Silky Terrier was created when Yorkshire Terriers from England were brought into parts of Australia and bred to Australian Terrier bitches to improve coat color in the blue and tan Australian Terrier. They were AKC recognized in 1959. They range in size from 9 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder and approximately 10 pounds.

Skye Terrier

Skye Terrier originated on the Isle of Skye off the west coast of Scotland Bred to destroy vermin. AKC recognized in 1887 Range in size between 35 to 45 pounds. The ideal height is 10 inches and bitches 9½ inches. A 10 inch dog measured from chest bone over tail at rump should be 20 inches.The coat must be of one over-all color at the skin and it may be of varying shades of the same color in the full coat, which may be black, blue, dark or light grey, silver platinum, fawn or cream.

Smooth Fox Terrier

The Smooth Fox Terrier are predominantly white in color with black or tan markings.The Smooth Fox Terrier originated in the British Isles in the 17th century were they were used for eradicating vermin. They were AKC recognized in 1885. They should not exceed 15½ inches tall at the shoulder and 18 pounds

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was developed in the region of Staffordshire, England in the nineteenth century.The breedl was developed for the then-popular sport of bull baiting.They range in heigth from 13-16 inches and weight rangesfrom 23 to 38 pounds.Colors range from red, fawn, white, black or blue, or any of these colors with white, any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white. No black-and-tan or liver color. They were AKC recognized in 1975

Tibetan Spaniel

The Tibetan spaniel was bred as a companion dogs in their native Tibet. They can be all colors including cream, gold and sable, with white markings allowed on the feet. These "little lions" were AKC recognized in 1983. The ideal size for this breed is 10 inches tall at the shoulder and 9 to 15 pounds.

Tibetan Terrier

The Tibetan Terrier is not a terrier at all. It was bred and raised in monasteries by lamasin in Tibet almost 2,000 years ago. They were used as companions, good luck charms, mascots and watchdogs. The breed was AKC recognized in 1973. They are borlerliine between small and medium sized dog since they range in size from 14 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder and 18 to 30 pounds

Toy and Standard American Eskimo Dog

Standard and Toy American Eskimo Dog. The American Eskimo Dog has nothing to do with Eskimos.Is is a member of the Spitz family and originated from Germany.They come in three sizes:Toy -9 to 12 inches at shoulders.Miniature - over 12 -15 inches,Standards - over 15 to 19 inches.The standard size dog is borderlline small/ medium group leaning mostly to medium. The preferred color is pure white, although white with biscuit cream is permissible.

Toy Fox Terrier

The Toy Fox Terrier is an American dog bred to hunt small rodents. They range from 8.5 to 11.5 inches measured to the shoulders. They were AKC recognized in 2003. The breed's coat colors are white, chocolate and tan; white and tan; white and black; or tri-color. Body must be over 50% white.

Toy Manchester Terrier

Toy Manchester Terrier was first breed in England and used to hunt rats. AKC recognized the toy breed in 1886 and the standard breed in 1887. The toy dog must weigh under 12 pounds and the standard must weigh between 12 and 22 pounds.

Toy Poodle

Toy Poodles were originated in Germany as a water retriever.The poodle cut was designed to protect the dogs from cold water yet allowing the dogs to move through water faster. Toy poodles must be under 10 inches and miniatures over 10 but under 15 inches.

Welsh Terrier

Welsh Terriers' native home is Wales. They were bred as fox hunters. Welsh Terriers were first brought to this country by Prescott Lawrence in 1888. They became AKC recognized in 1888.They should weigh around 20 pounds and be no more then 15 inches high at the shoulders.

West Highland White Terrier

West Highland white terrier are believed to have originated from Poltalloch, Scotland. Before 1909 they were also called the Poltalloch Terrier and the Roseneath Terrier. The breed is usually between 10 and 11 inches tall at the shoulder.These dogs were bred as vermin hunters

Wire Fox Terrier

The Wire Fox Terrier was developed in the British Isles in the 17th century. The terrier was bred to "go to ground" and chase fox and other small game from their dens. The breed was AKC recognized in 1885 .The dog should weigh under 18 pounds and be no taller then 15 1/2 inches at the shoulder.

Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier belongs to the toy group and was AKC recognized in 1885. They weigh less then 7 pounds and require limited exercise, but need daily attention. They have a long coat which requires regular brushing. They travel well. They were developed in the 19th century in the county of Yorkshire, England to catch rats in clothing mills, also used for ratting or rat-baiting.

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